Mesothelioma is an unusual form of cancer of the mesothelial cells

Receiving much press in recent years ~ both because of the number of people affected, as well as the sometimes sensational, multi-million-dollar lawsuits that have been filed, fought, won & lost ~ is a rare form of cancer known as malignant mesothelioma, whose principle cause is exposure to aspestos fibers. Asbestos, a known toxin since the 1930's, is an inexpensive fibrous material that is extremely durable and heat resistant. Because of these properties it was, for many years, heavily used in industry throughout the United States.The most critical form of mesothelioma is the malignant form. Known as malignant mesothelioma, the primary causal factor is asbestos infection. According to the US National Cancer Institute, "Malignant mesothelioma is a disease in which cancer (malignant) cells are found in the sac lining the chest (the pleura), the lining of the abdominal cavity (the peritoneum) or the lining around the heart (the pericardium)."

Mesothelioma is an unusual form of cancer of the mesothelial cells that line the lungs, heart and the stomach. In recent times, in the U.S, there has been an alarming rise in the occurrence of mesothelioma cases mainly caused by exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma that develops in the lining of the heart is known as pericardium mesothelioma. When found in the sac that lines the chest or abdomen, it is called malignant mesothelioma. Asbestosis is a chronic lung ailment that produces shortness of breath, coughing and even permanent lung damage. Many treatment programs for mesothelioma have been initiated with a purpose of curbing or curing the disease. There are a number of Web sites that provide information on various treatments of mesothelioma.